The South Houston area is loaded with talented athletes who give it there all in their respective fields of play.
Welcome to the VYPE Playmakers powered by UTMB Health, where we’re highlighting five standouts from this past week who stole the headlines.
In this edition, we'll be detailing some of the notable developments that are taking place during each individual's respective off-season.
Here are the UTMB Athletes of the Month, as the Winter season heats up.
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Coach Corby Meekins, Lutheran South Academy Football
Photo provided by Coach Corby Meekins (Twitter: @corbymeekins)
The Pioneers recently made an expert hire by bringing in a household name in Texas coaching like Corby Meekins.
LSA's newest head football coach has built up quite the resume over the years, most recently serving as the assistant head coach for the University of Houston.
Prior to the four years he spent with UH, Meekins' considerable career was bolstered with experience at the University of Texas. Most notably, Meekins served as the head coach for Westfield between 2004 and 2014, where he would guide the team to 10 playoff appearances, including a trip to the state championship game in 2004.
Given this new change in leadership, all eyes will certainly be on Lutheran South once they suit up next Fall.
Chase Bruton, Hitchcock Football
Photo by Jackson DiPasquale (VYPE)
Chase Bruton's stellar performance in the 2023 season was one of many Hitchcock players that led the Class 3A power to yet another district championship and ensuing trip to the postseason.
The star DB/WR naturally earned himself first-team all-district honors with his efforts, and given his considerable speed and 5-foot-10 frame, it was only a matter of time before the junior Bulldog received his first official offer to play collegiate ball.
Just this past week, Bruton got the call from the University of Texas-El Paso (UTEP), which will undoubtedly be the first of many if the results he has shown thus far are any indication.
Kyden Barker, Galveston Ball Football
Photo provided by Kyden Barker
QB Kyden Barker put up some impressive numbers from behind center this past Fall.
In just his sophomore year, the Galveston Ball phenom threw for over 2,000 yards and 30 touchdowns, with another score on the ground to boot.
Given the productivity he's displayed, despite his young age, it comes as no surprise that Barker already has an offer from UNLV, and recently visited the University of Texas following a note-worthy invite.
With additional visits to Texas A&M and the University of Houston coming soon, the future is certainly bright for this rising star.
Tyler Thomas, Dickinson Football
Photo provided by Tyler Thomas (Twitter: @TThomas06x)
As one of the top offensive linemen in the state, Class of 2025's Tyler Thomas has been raising eyebrows from recruiters nationwide.
The three-star Dickinson product already holds offers from several top collegiate programs -- namely Tennessee, Texas A&M, Oklahoma, Texas, Ole Miss, and LSU -- with plenty more pouring in.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and 310 pounds, complemented by quick feet and an explosive energy, Thomas has become a force to be reckoned with in the trenches.
It will interesting to see where he ultimately decides to call home following his upcoming senior year.
Jaylen Stewart, Pearland Football
Photo provided by Jaylen Stewart
Jaylen Stewart was a welcome surprise to Pearland's already-stingy defense in 2023.
In just his sophomore year, he racked up a team-high 6 sacks, along with 52 total tackles, 2 forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. Unsurprisingly, Stewart earned first-team all-district honors, with the additional recognition of being named the district's Defensive Newcomer of the Year.
While he currently only holds one offer (Baylor), there's no doubt that will change by the time he takes to the field again for his junior season.
If this was his introduction, we can't to see what more is in store for this Pearland game-wrecker.